I love this question. There have been many great leaders in our association over the years. I didn't get involved until 1987 so some of the history precedes me. But here's a couple of names that stand out to me:
Roy Brewer - the consummate example of education in our industry. He was there for my first show (probably sooner) and his "Guerilla Marketing" was my first seminar I ever attended. I was blown away. THAT is when I recognized 1) how much I didn't know 2) just how sharing this industry is and 3) what a great speaker looks like. I always kept him in mind when I presented a seminar, always hoping to rise to his level. While he has slowed down, he is still a constant today. He's forgotten more than most of us know!
Bill Townsend - I served on the board with Bill when he led TDMA through the first transition of management groups in 1993 and it was extraordinarily difficult. He effectively served as President for a year and a half and helped navigate the tricky legal and transitional issues as we eventually became ARA.
Mike Neer - Mike was part of the original management group but he was largely responsible for creating our education program. He helped establish our certifications CRS and CRM.
Darwin Sletten - Darwin was the only President to serve two terms and helped unite TDMA in the mid 80's when it was almost torn apart by internal squabbles. I always saw him as a gentleman and someone who genuinely cared about the fate of the organization.
There are lots of others who are probably worthy. It will be fun watching who else pops up in this discussion.
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Sam Varn, CRM
Awards4U
President / Zen Master of Recognition
sam.varn@awards4u.com850-878-7187
Tallahassee, FL USA
www.awards4u.com------------------------------